Nobody wants to take the spark out of Independence Day. What everyone wants is a safe Fourth of July.

Maintaining the safe use of fireworks becomes increasingly challenging as suburban sprawl continues on all islands. In each of the past three years, the number of injuries has increased.

And no wonder: Despite laws to ban them, aerial fireworks rocket through the skies and alight on rooftops and in brushy areas near homes. Recent hot, dry weather has left homes in many districts planted in the midst of what amounts to a tinderbox.

Parents who should set a good example sometimes lose their better judgment and do just the opposite. At the very least, Mom and Dad need to watch younger kids: Nearly three-fourths of the injury victims last year were 14 or younger.

So enjoy the legal pyrotechnics permitted for private use. Make sure brush is cut back near your home. And check out the truly spectacular public displays listed here.